Letter to the Editor: KPU’s parking rate increase must be balanced with other transportation costs

Dear Editor,

I am writing in response to Kwanten Polytechnic University’s recent announcement regarding increased parking rates and the Kwantlen Student Association’s continued mandatory Multipass program, which includes the U-pass and intercampus shuttle.

KPU increased its hourly parking rate from $2 to $4, and the daily parking pass from $5 to $10. While the university explains that the parking fee increase is necessary to address rising maintenance and infrastructure costs after more than a decade without changes, the change overlooks the financial challenges many students face.

KPU serves a diverse student population, including commuters from the Fraser Valley and surrounding communities where public transit is limited or unavailable. Many students also balance work, family responsibilities, and irregular schedules that make driving their only practical option.

These students are now expected to pay higher parking fees while also contributing to the mandatory Multipass program, even if they rarely use public transit. This effectively requires them to pay for two transportation systems.

Supporting sustainable transportation is an important goal, but fairness should also be a priority. A broader opt-out option should be available for students who cannot reasonably use the Multipass program.

KPU should also work with the KSA to review parking policies and pricing. A more flexible approach would recognize the different transportation needs of students while still encouraging transit use where it is practical.

As a university that values accessibility and inclusion, KPU has an opportunity to create transportation policies that are both environmentally responsible and financially equitable. Listening to student concerns and providing meaningful transportation choices would better reflect those values.

Sincerely,

Manvir Kaur

Kwantlen Polytechnic University student